- #1
DjLeo
- 1
- 0
My question is, Why do we use q=1.6*10^-19 C rather than -1.6*10^-19 C, for the charge on an electron in most of the equations?
The Charge of an Electron: Q = 1.6x10^-19C
In summary, the choice to use q=1.6*10^-19 C rather than -1.6*10^-19 C for the charge on an electron in most equations is a historical accident and completely arbitrary. This decision was made long before the discovery of the electron and is based on the convention of calling like charges negative and unlike charges positive.
- #2
NascentOxygen
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
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Hi DjLeo.
As for your question...I don't believe we do, actually. But let me move this over to General Physics and the people there will sort you out.
As for your question...I don't believe we do, actually. But let me move this over to General Physics and the people there will sort you out.
- #3
Nugatory
Mentor
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- 9,876
It is a complete and total historical accident. As early as the 18th century, long before the discovery of the electron or any other subatomic particle, it was known that there were two types of charge, and that like repelled and unlike attracted. The choice of which we would call negative and which we would call positive was completely arbitrary.
Many years later the electron was discovered, and it turned out that it had the kind of charge that we had been calling negative: https://xkcd.com/567/
Many years later the electron was discovered, and it turned out that it had the kind of charge that we had been calling negative: https://xkcd.com/567/
- #4
Khashishi
Science Advisor
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It's completely arbitrary whether you say the charge on an electron is -q, with q=1.6*10^-19C, or +q, with q=-1.6*10^-19C
FAQ: The Charge of an Electron: Q = 1.6x10^-19C
What is the charge of an electron?
The charge of an electron is a fundamental physical constant in the field of physics and is considered to be the smallest unit of electric charge. It is represented by the symbol "e" and has a value of 1.6x10^-19 Coulombs (C).
How was the charge of an electron determined?
The charge of an electron was first determined by Robert Millikan in 1909 through his famous oil drop experiment. He observed the motion of charged oil droplets in an electric field and calculated the charge of an electron to be 1.6x10^-19 C.
What is the significance of the charge of an electron?
The charge of an electron plays a crucial role in the behavior of matter and the interactions between particles. It is the basis for the concept of electricity and is used in many fields including electronics, chemistry, and material science.
Can the charge of an electron be changed?
No, the charge of an electron is a fundamental constant and cannot be changed. It is considered to be a fundamental property of an electron, along with its mass and spin.
What is the relationship between charge and mass of an electron?
The charge and mass of an electron are directly related. The charge of an electron is 1.6x10^-19 C and its mass is 9.11x10^-31 kilograms. This means that the charge-to-mass ratio of an electron is 1.76x10^11 C/kg.